Two sisters have been arrested in San Diego on suspicion of murdering their mother and severely neglecting their elderly father, police said. Investigators allege both parents were dependent on their daughters for care at the time of the woman’s death earlier this year.
The case centers on an apartment in University City and a medical emergency call that later became a homicide investigation.
Case
San Diego police arrested Ingrid Wu, 52, and her sister, 53-year-old Rebecca Wu, on Thursday. Authorities say the two women were acting as caretakers for their parents, both in their 80s, when their mother died.
The victim, identified as 81-year-old Kun-Ying Yang, was found dead inside the family’s University City apartment on March 6. Police said the father, 88, was also living in the home and was unable to care for himself.
Response
Patrol officers responded late that evening to a report of a medical emergency at the apartment, according to SDPD Acting Lt. Christopher Leahy.
When officers arrived, they found Yang unconscious and lying face-down in a narrow gap between a pull-out couch and a bed frame. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
At the time, officers noted concerns that later prompted a more extensive investigation.
Findings
A postmortem examination later determined that Yang died from positional asphyxia. Police said contributing factors included neglect.
Based on the medical findings and evidence gathered, the manner of death was ruled a homicide.
Investigators concluded that the sisters allegedly failed to provide legally required care for their parents and endangered their health, leading to their mother’s death and the severe neglect of their father.
Charges
Both Ingrid and Rebecca Wu were arrested on suspicion of murder and elder abuse. Police said the charges reflect allegations related to both parents, not just the circumstances surrounding Yang’s death.
The sisters were booked into Las Colinas Women’s Detention Facility in Santee.
Investigation
Police have not released additional details about the length of time the alleged neglect occurred or the specific conditions inside the apartment.
Investigators said the case underscores the legal responsibilities of caregivers, particularly when caring for elderly individuals who cannot meet their own basic needs.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not announced whether additional charges could be filed.
Case Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Kun-Ying Yang, 81 |
| Suspects | Ingrid Wu, 52, Rebecca Wu, 53 |
| Location | University City, San Diego |
| Cause of Death | Positional asphyxia |
| Ruling | Homicide |
| Charges | Murder, elder abuse |
Context
Elder abuse cases are often complex and can involve neglect rather than direct violence. Police say they work closely with medical examiners and social services to determine whether deaths result from natural causes, accidents, or criminal acts.
In this case, investigators said the evidence supported criminal charges.
The sisters are expected to make their initial court appearances in the coming days.
FAQs
Who was the victim?
Kun-Ying Yang, an 81-year-old San Diego woman.
Who was arrested?
Her two daughters, Ingrid and Rebecca Wu.
What was the cause of death?
Positional asphyxia with contributing neglect.
What charges were filed?
Murder and elder abuse.
Where are the suspects being held?
Las Colinas Women’s Detention Facility.
